How to Kill Moss With Zinc

Kill moss with zinc sulfate powder.

Moss is an unsightly soft plant that quickly grows over hard surfaces in shady locations. In addition to being unpleasant to look at, moss is also hazardous. It can separate and deteriorate shingles when it grows on a rooftop or make a sidewalk slippery. Killing and removing the moss can be done with several different chemicals, including the natural-occurring mineral zinc.

1

Cover any vegetation near the area you wish to treat with zinc. Zinc will kill any vegetation it comes into contact with, so it is best to use plastic covers to protect it.

2

Select a day to apply the zinc that is free of rain and wind. Wear protective clothing, gloves, goggles and a mask.

3

Sprinkle a product that contains the main ingredient zinc sulfate over the moss you wish to kill. Apply the zinc sulfate at a rate of 3 pounds for every 600 square feet of space, as recommended by Oregon State University.

4

Wait a week or two for the moss to completely die out before brushing it away. If you have a power washer, you can use that to remove the dead moss instead of spending the time brushing it away.

5

Install zinc strips just below the peak of your roof, if that is where you had the problem moss. The active ingredient in the zinc strips is metallic zinc, which works to keep the moss from coming back.

Things You Will Need

Plastic coverings

Zinc sulfate

Protective clothing

Gloves

Goggles

Mask

Brush

Power washer

Zinc strips

Tip

Reapply the zinc sulfate every two years.

Zinc chloride will also work, but it is highly corrosive. Do not use it on copper or painted surfaces.

Warning

Zinc sulfate is toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates and should not be used near a body of water.

About the Author

I am a stay at home Mom and I enjoy writing articles and working on my blogs and website. I was one of the top 1000 Content Producers of 2007 for Associated Content. I come from a line of writers. My Father has published dozens of science fair project books and owns a newspaper here in town. My Grandfather has published hundreds of short stories. I look forward to being able to work with you.